Article of headwear including non-newtonian fluid

ABSTRACT

An article of headwear that includes at least a first bladder member that defines a bladder interior that includes a non-Newtonian fluid disposed therein, and a fabric member that surrounds the first bladder member. The fabric member includes an outer layer and an inner layer. The inner layer is configured to be positioned adjacent a wearer&#39;s head when the article of headwear is worn.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/790,635, filed Jan. 10, 2019, the entirety of which is incorporatedherein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to protective headwear and gear, such aspadding, body armor, etc.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various activities, such as non-contact sports, and in particular thesports of soccer, rugby, and basketball, etc., do not require the use ofhelmets, and yet incur concussive forces relating to impacts with otherplayers, heading the soccer ball, impacts with elbows, knees, the groundand so forth and recent attempts to protect participants from impactinjuries to their heads and necks, etc. due to the repetitive and severeimpacts forces that may be sustained during such activities.Accordingly, a need exists for a solution in safety headwear that helpssolve the problems discussed above.

Various improvements over the recent years have been made to theassorted components of headwear including headbands and skull caps,however, in general, the impact dissipation and energy attenuation issolely addressed by material science only.

Since a player wears headwear, i.e. a headband for a considerable periodof time during practices and games, it would be desirable to minimizethe weight of the headband or skull cap, while not sacrificingsufficient protection. It would be desirable if the size and thicknessprofile of the headband or skull cap could be reduced, thereby reducingthe overall profile and weight of the headband or skull cap, plusimprove the energy attenuation with these and other limitations that areovercome by the current invention.

Protective headwear, including headbands and skull caps are used andhave primarily one element for function, or one function, which is forprotecting the wearer from impacts from players, balls, the ground orother objects, etc. Manufacturers' headbands typically cover someportion, or the entire forehead, and skull caps cover all of the crownof the head down to covering all or a major portion of the forehead.Current headbands in use today cover the majority of the forehead insoccer.

SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention there isprovided an article of headwear that includes at least a first bladdermember that defines a bladder interior that includes a non-Newtonianfluid disposed therein, and a fabric member that surrounds the firstbladder member. The fabric member includes an outer layer and an innerlayer. The inner layer is configured to be positioned adjacent awearer's head when the article of headwear is worn. In a preferredembodiment, the bladder member includes a plurality of cells definedtherein, and each cell includes the non-Newtonian fluid disposedtherein. Preferably, each cell has a honeycomb shape. However, the cellscan be columnar or other shape as well. In a preferred embodiment, eachcell defines a cell axis that is oriented generally perpendicular to theinner surface. In other words, the cell axis is perpendicular when thearticle of headwear is laid our flat and there are no wrinkles or othervariations in the fabric or bladder member.

In a preferred embodiment, the article of headwear is a cylindricalheadband. In another embodiment the article of headwear is a skull cap.In a preferred embodiment, the article of headwear includes a pluralityof bladder members that are enclosed in a plurality of pockets. Thepockets can be defined by securing the inner and outer layers of thefabric member together or the pockets can be formed by separate fabricmembers that are secured together to form the article of headwear. In anembodiment, the article of headwear can include a coil system or aplurality of coil members that are disposed in the bladder interior andwithin the non-Newtonian fluid or separate from the non-Newtonian fluid,but in addition to the non-Newtonian fluid. For example, thenon-Newtonian fluid can be in a bladder and the coils can be in aseparate portion of the article of headwear.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided an article of headwear that includes at least a first bladdermember that defines a bladder interior, a fabric member and a foam layeror member. The bladder is made of a polymer and includes a plurality ofcells defined therein. A non-Newtonian fluid is disposed in each of thecells and each cell has a honeycomb shape and defines a cell axis. Thefabric member surrounds the first bladder member (defines a fabricmember interior) and includes an outer layer and an inner layer. Theinner layer is configured to be positioned adjacent a wearer's head whenthe article of headwear is worn. The inner layer of the fabric layerdefines an inner surface, and the cell axes are oriented generallyperpendicular to the inner surface. The foam layer is positioned betweenthe outer layer of the fabric member and the bladder member.

The current invention is an advanced sports safety headwear technologysystem and apparatus that is designed to protect the head from injuryresulting from sports and other impacts. The current invention isdesigned to dissipate and energy attenuate impact energy force in whichlinear and rotational acceleration result from the impact force.

The current invention, as a protective sports safety headband and skullcap, may include a force attenuating reinforcement layer or layers, ormatrix of honeycomb or in any combination or layers as needed in theprotective headband or skull cap suspended in a non-Newtonian fluidcontained within the headband having an outer surface, an inner surface,a front region, a rear region, and two side regions, and with the skullcap force attenuating reinforcement matrix of honeycomb in anycombination or layers suspended in a non-Newtonian fluid containedwithin the skull cap having an outer surface, an inner surface, a frontregion, a rear region, two side regions, and a crown or top region.

The current invention further comprises an improved reinforcement forceattenuating non-Newtonian fluid for use in a variety of advanced sportssafety headbands or skull caps. In one embodiment, the present inventionencompasses a wide variety of force attenuating fluid(s) as statedherein that are articulated so that the displacement of impacts resultsin a force component outside the impact axis of the impact of theadvanced sports safety headwear or skull cap. In another embodiment, thepresent invention encompasses a matrix of honeycomb suspended in anon-Newtonian fluid, which encompasses a wide variety of forceattenuating fluid(s) as stated herein that are articulated so that thedisplacement of impacts results in a force component outside the impactaxis of the impact of the advanced sports safety headwear or skull cap.The impact force attenuating matrix of honeycomb suspended innon-Newtonian fluid, or non-Newtonian fluid can be incorporated into awide variety of advanced sports safety headbands or skull caps of avariety of sizes and configurations to produce impact reduction and/orother advantages.

The current invention further comprises an improved head protectionsystem for use of dilitants, shear thickening fluids (STF) ornon-Newtonian fluid(s) used in head and other protection devices, takinginto account the content, consistency, and properties of the fluid(s)and use with impact force. The non-Newtonian fluid(s) transition to act,due to the nature and properties of the non-Newtonian Fluid, as a hardhelmet shell at the point of impact, otherwise the fluid(s) remainnaturally in a suspended or fluid state. Non-Newtonian fluids do notundergo strain rates proportional to the applied shear stress. Therheology of a colloidal PEG-based shear thickening fluid emulsified withsilicone oil is one potential option, as taught in US Patent Publicationnumber 2006/0234572 the entirety of which is incorporated herein byreference, where a shear thickening response is observed in theviscosity-shear rate curves for volume fractions as low as 10% of theSTF in the silicone emulsion, which might be one fluid solution.

Dilatancy in a colloid, or its ability to order in the presence of shearforces is dependent on the ratio of interparticle forces. As long asinterparticle forces, such as Van der Waals forces dominate, which isthe sum of the attractive or repulsive forces between molecules, thesuspended particles remain in ordered layers. However, once shear forcesdominate, particles enter a state of flocculation and are no longer heldin suspension; they begin to behave like a solid. When the shear forcesare removed, the particles spread apart and once again form a stablesuspension.

In the current invention the fluid flows and their directions, combinedwith the energy flows coincide due to the nature of fluid flows notbeing generic in the design of the current invention, in other words notbeing a straight parallel flow from point A to B, such as in a tube orbox with boundaries, but with boundary conditions leading to radialflows. When using the Navier-Stokes equations, the modeling must addressmultiple distributions, ranging from as simple as the distribution ofstatic pressure to as complicated as multiphase flow driven by surfacetension, or in the case of the impact force of the current invention,which could include both parallel linear and radial flows.

Difficulties may arise when the problem becomes slightly morecomplicated. A seemingly modest twist on the parallel flow discussedabove would be the radial flow between parallel plates; this involvesconvection and thus non-linearity.

The current invention further comprises the energy flows fromcompression into rarefaction into the non-Newtonian fluid at the pointof incident or impact, i.e., at the point of compression. The contactmechanics is contact between two elastic bodies cylindrical and ovalshaped, with soft elastic exteriors, and with the flows spreading intothe honeycomb at the point of impact and where the non-Newtonian fluidsolidifies, or spreads into the non-Newtonian fluid at the point ofimpact where the non-Newtonian fluid solidifies. The energy flowsnaturally would radiate outwardly into the headband or skull cap visavie a radial. The shear thickening fluid forms at the point of impactcoupled with the matrix of honeycomb to linearly and non-linearly atleast in the tangential or shear direction to mitigate angularacceleration of the head during an impact. It will be appreciated thatthe term non-Newtonian fluid is used to refer to all the non-Newtonianfluids, shear thickening fluids and dilitants discussed herein.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a method andapparatus, which can inexpensively and efficiently manufactureattenuating reinforcement inside headwear including headbands and skullcap(s) in high volume with a specifiable range of design ofreinforcement(s) having enhanced impact control characteristics andstress dissipation as needed. Previously unavailable shock, reduction,displacement, energy attenuation addressing small to great impactforces, which improves overall safety performances for safety helmetsand headwear/gear protection in general, and more specifically soccerheadbands and skull caps. It may be appreciated that there is lessweight/mass, reduction in motion transfer, and improved stress directingand transfer

The coil system encompasses a multidimensional, annular forcementstructural ring system that represents many varied and diverse annularcomponents and methods of synergistic reinforcements from a wide varietyof helmets composites employing new innovative methods and apparatuses,such as rings, curves, loops, turns, coils, spirals, helices,polyhedrons, grid works, meshes and weaves that provide annularstrengthening functions. Tests conclude the system works for g-forcereduction, reduction in the Severity Index, or “SI,” as well asreduction in the Head Injury Criterion index, or “HIC” using the NOCSAEDrop System for linear impact/force. U.S. Pat. No. 9,314,060 (the “'060patent”) is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes anon-Newtonian fluid that comprises corn starch and non-toxic antifreezeencased in a plastic sleeve, which is surrounded by lightweight foam andouter fabric (e.g., a wicking material). Any non-toxic antifreeze iswithin the scope of the present invention. For example, propylene glycolis considerably less toxic than ethylene glycol and may be labeled as“non-toxic antifreeze.” It is used as antifreeze where ethylene glycolmay be inappropriate, such as in food-processing systems or in waterpipes in homes where incidental ingestion may be possible. For example,the U.S. FDA allows propylene glycol to be added to a large number ofprocessed foods, including ice cream, frozen custard, salad dressings,and baked goods, and it is commonly used as the main ingredient in the“e-liquid” used in electronic cigarettes. Propylene glycol oxidizes tolactic acid.

The current invention further comprises an improved mechanism to protectsoccer players using the combination of the matrix of honeycombsuspended in the non-Newtonian fluid(s) in a soft, wicking lightweightadvanced sports safety headband or skull cap. A breathable wickingmaterial with an inner layer or closed/sealed tube or bladder made ofpolyurethanes, polyolefins or any polymeric material to contain andmaintain the shear thickening fluid, or STF locked within the innerlayer in a permanently enclosed environment. Polyolefins are unsaturatedhydrocarbons extracted from petroleum or natural gas. A non-Newtonianshear thickening fluid has a viscosity of a shear thickening fluid, ordilatant fluid that appears to increase when the shear rate or impactforce increases. Corn starch dissolved in water (“oobleck”) is a commonexample: when stirred slowly it looks milky, when stirred vigorously itfeels like a very viscous liquid. The shear thickening fluid couldalternatively be a surfactant solution, such as Dawn dish soap, whichhas been shown in the literature to clearly exhibit a shear thickeningtransition, or any fluid which exhibits an increase in viscosity withincreasing applied shear stress or shear rate. In a non-Newtonian fluid,the relation between the shear stress and the shear rate is differentand can even be time-dependent (time dependent viscosity). Therefore, aconstant coefficient of viscosity cannot be defined.

Since the application of the current invention may not be working withhard exterior materials, but with soft encapsulating materials withwhich to hold the shear thickening non-Newtonian fluid one key inworking with fluid mechanics is the study of fluids (liquids, gases, andplasmas) and the forces on them with the changes that occur with forceon non-Newtonian Fluids, or hydrodynamics (the study of liquids inmotion), and the physics of continuous materials, which deform whensubjected to a force. Fluid statics, the study of fluids at rest; andfluid dynamics, the study of the effect of forces on fluid motion, andthe constitution of the shear thickening fluid composite selected may beusing corn starch with non-toxic anti-freeze. The current inventionshall consider weight of the shear thickening fluids, as well as thecomposition where the viscosity increases with shear rate, and at highshear rates instantly transforms into a material with solid-likeproperties and reverses itself just as quickly once the incident ofimpact force or shear rate is substantially reduced by energyattenuation through the honeycomb, as well as the incident of impactforce or shear rate is substantially reduced by energy attenuationthrough what is naturally inherent in the dilitant fluid already tested,and what is selected.

The current invention may hold a static mass inside as well as outside,or the two masses, the headband or skull cap and the fluid may remainconstant. The conservation of mass is in relationship to the hard shellcounterparts, and the density of the fluid may remain constant. Thecurrent invention may also address the viscosity of the fluid, which isa constant of proportionality between the viscous stress tensor and thevelocity gradient, or the viscosity. Non-Newtonian fluids do not undergostrain rates proportional to the applied shear stress, and non-Newtonianfluids viscoelastic, which the current invention addresses.

Viscoelasticity is the property of materials that exhibit both viscousand elastic characteristics when undergoing deformation. Viscousmaterials, like honey, resist shear flow and strain linearly with timewhen a stress is applied. Elastic materials strain when stretched andquickly return to their original state once the stress is removed.Viscoelastic materials have elements of both of these properties and, assuch, exhibit time-dependent strain. Whereas elasticity is usually theresult of bond stretching along crystallographic planes in an orderedsolid, viscosity is the result of the diffusion of atoms or moleculesinside an amorphous material.

Within the scope of this invention, the shear thickening fluid maycontain corn starch with a non-toxic antifreeze and/or water, as well asthe shear thickening fluid may contain concentrated dispersions ofmicroscopic particulates within a fluid medium that exhibit an increasein viscosity with increasing applied stress. Particles may be of anysolid material, including spherical amorphous silica such as thatproduced via Stober type synthesis, synthetic inorganic particlessynthesized via solution precipitation processes such as precipitatedcalcium carbonate, or synthesized by gel-sol techniques (hematite,TiO2), or fumed silica, or carbon black. Natural inorganic particulates,such as montorillonite and kaolin clays can be dispersed in solvents andhave been shown to exhibit shear thickening behavior. Ground mineralpowders, such as quartz, calcite, talcs, gypsum, mica can be dispersedin liquid mediums and exhibit shear thickening behavior.

One embodiment of the invention relates to shear thickening fluidsincorporated into a second fluid medium exhibit rheological behaviorindicating their ability to impart improved energy dissipativecapabilities to composites. One embodiment of the invention may includea matrix of honeycomb to the present invention that may support theheadwear's ability to dissipate and energy attenuate impact force, whichmay be suspended in the STF. Honeycomb materials may be fabricated froma number of advanced materials available today.

The following synopsis represents a summary of aspects of the inventionto provide a basic understanding of the invention, and the purpose ofthe invention. This summary is just that to provide an overview of theinvention, and is not intended to identify all key critical elements ofthe invention, or to define/describe the scope, capacity or opportunityof the invention. The summary simply provides some concepts of theinvention in a general form, as an introduction to the comprehensivedescription outlined below.

Aspects of the invention pertain to head members and head full crownreceiving devices, such as a headband or skull cap system(s) (i.e.headbands and skull caps already manufactured principally to eitherprovide warmth to the head, some shock resistance, and/or wick moistureaway from the wearer for users for athletics, and any other daily usewhere protection from the weather is required), which includes aheadband member, a crown member, which both respectively are completeunits, engaged as a single or double layered moisture wicking systemwhere the outer layer may contain a thin layer of foam, and/orhoneycomb. The headband or skull cap member(s) may include an enclosedplastic or flexible polymer system with a cavity to house or containnon-Newtonian fluid(s), which may include and house or contain thematrix of honeycomb contained therein. The headband member and skull capmember may also include or define a cavity or void to house or hold thematrix of honeycomb energy dissipation and attenuation device. Theheadband or skull cap member(s) may also include or define a cavity,void or pocket receiving device to house or hold the matrix of honeycombwhere it is attached at certain points while suspended in thenon-Newtonian fluid. The matrix of honeycomb may be suspended andfloating within the headband or skull cap member(s) in the non-Newtonianfluid without any attachments at certain points. The headband or skullcap may also include coils suspended in the non-Newtonian fluid or justoutside.

In accordance with the present invention embodiment, the apparatuscomprises head protection in the form of a headband, and the headbandcomprises a multi-layered sidewall, front-wall, and back-wall, anddefines an opening for a head of a wearer. The multi-layered wall(s) ofthe headband comprise an outer fabric layer that may contain a very thinlayer of foam, and/or honeycomb, and an inner layer positioned proximateto the outer fabric layer. The skull cap comprises a multi-layeredsidewall, front-wall, back-wall, and also comprises a multi-layeredcrown, crown area, top wall or panel. The multi-layered sidewall extendsfrom multi-layered top wall or panel as one contiguous unit, and definesan opening for a head of a user or wearer. The headband and the skullcap are stretchable between a relaxed relationship and an expandedrelationship when placed upon the head of a wearer.

In accordance with another embodiment, the apparatus comprises aheadband having a longitudinal axis. The headband also comprises asidewall extending circumferentially about the longitudinal axis. Thesidewall comprises an outer wicking stretchable fabric layer that maycontain a very thin layer of foam, an inner layer that is aclosed/sealed tube or bladder made of polyurethanes, polyolefins or anypolymeric material attached to the outer stretchable fabric layer, wherethe inner layer defines a cavity, void or pocket receiving device tohouse or hold the matrix of honeycomb where it may be attached atcertain points while suspended in the non-Newtonian fluid. The matrix ofhoneycomb may be suspended and floating within the headband or skull capmember(s) in the non-Newtonian fluid without any attachments at certainpoints, or the non-Newtonian fluid may be suspended and sealed withinthe honeycomb cavities. The inner layer also comprises a layerpositioned within the outer layer, the inner layer having a fullcircumference surface, where it is circumferentially spaced inrelationship to the outer layer. The inner layer has a top edge surface,a bottom edge surface and a circumference sidewall surface to define acavity, void, pocket there between.

In accordance with yet another embodiment, the apparatus is to be wornby a user independent of a hard surface helmet shell, and the currentinvention comprises stand-alone head protection headwear in the form ofa headband or skull cap to be worn by the users or wearer whenparticipating in sports. The headband or skull cap comprise a wickingstretchable outer fabric layer that may contain a very thin layer offoam, an inner layer where the inner layer defines a cavity, void orpocket receiving device housing the non-Newtonian Fluid and the matrixof honeycomb. The stretchable outer fabric layer is configured tocontact and generally conform to a head of a wearer when worn by a useror wearer, in conjunction with the inner layer containing thenon-Newtonian fluid and the suspended matrix of honeycomb to dissipateand energy attenuate an impact force as applied to the head protection.

Additional aspects of the invention relate to sample methods forproviding body protection using a non-Newtonian fluid with the matrix ofhoneycomb suspended in the fluid contained within the body protectionwith designed individual cavities. Such methods may include athleticvests, body armor, body padding, etc., as receiving members.

Aspects of the invention pertain to outer and inner layers or members,non-Newtonian fluid, matrix of honeycomb member, receiving devices, suchas a disposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system/memberand apparatus, which may include a headband or skull cap, which includesa headband member with an outer layer member that may contain a verythin layer of foam, and/or honeycomb, an inner layer member, anon-Newtonian fluid, and may contain a matrix of honeycomb member, whichare all engaged with each other as one complete unit, engaged as a headprotection system.

A disposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system andapparatus that is designed to protect the head from injury including aheadband or skull cap which includes a force attenuating reinforcementmatrix of honeycomb layer or layers or in any combination or layers asneeded in the protective headband or skull cap suspended in anon-Newtonian fluid contained within the headband having an outersurface, an inner surface, a front region, a rear region, and two sideregions, and with the skull cap force attenuating reinforcement layer orlayers from the protective skull cap in a variety of material(s) or inany combination or layers suspended in a non-Newtonian fluid containedwithin the skull cap having an outer surface, an inner surface, a frontregion, a rear region, two side regions, and a crown or top region.

In a preferred embodiment, the invention includes a headwear headbandprotection device comprising: a multi-layered sidewall, frontwall,backwall, the multi-layered wall(s) comprising: a stretchable fabriclayer, the stretchable fabric layer comprising an outer fabric layer,which may contain a very thin layer of foam. The inner layer cooperatingto define a pocket, and the inner layer cavity or pocket may contain thematrix of honeycomb and the non-Newtonian fluid. Both the inner layerand the outer layers preferably form a substantially cylindrical shape,and the substantially cylindrical shape defines a circular opening for ahead of a wearer; and the side layer is substantially rectangular andextends circumferentially about the head, the side layer comprising afirst surface, a second side surface, a front surface, and a backsurface, and wherein the first side surface and the second side surfaceare connected by the top surface and the bottom surface. The firstsurface material extends continuously and circumferentially about thehead. The matrix of honeycomb and the non-Newtonian fluid are containedcontinuously and circumferentially about or around the users or wearershead.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a headwearskull cap protection device comprising: a multi-layered sidewall,frontwall, backwall, top or crown wall or layer, the multi-layeredwall(s), a that includes an outer fabric layer that may contain a thinlayer of foam, and/or honeycomb. The inner layer cooperating to define apocket and the inner layer cavity or pocket may contain the matrix ofhoneycomb and the non-Newtonian fluid. The multi-layers form asubstantially cylindrical shape, and the substantially bowl shapedefines a circular opening at the base of the side walls for a head of awearer and the side layer is substantially rectangular and extendscircumferentially about the head, the side layer comprising a firstsurface, a second side surface, a front surface, and a back surface. Thefirst side surface and the second side surface are connected by thebottom surface, and the these side surfaces are connected to the top orcrown surface circumferentially around the head. The first surfacematerial extends continuously and circumferentially about the head. Thematrix of honeycomb and the non-Newtonian fluid are containedcontinuously and circumferentially from the crown down to the base ofthe circumferential side walls about or around the users or wearershead.

In a preferred embodiment, the inner layer may contain one or morematrix of honeycomb designed to dissipate and energy attenuate impactforce at the point of compression in the headwear member and/or adilitant, shear thickening fluid, or non-Newtonian fluid taking intoaccount the content, consistency, and properties of the fluid(s) and usewith impact force. The non-Newtonian fluid(s) transition to act, due tothe nature and properties of the non-Newtonian Fluid, as a hard helmetshell at the point of impact, otherwise the fluid(s) remain naturally ina suspended or fluid state.

In a preferred embodiment, the matrix of honeycomb may be suspendedwithin the non-Newtonian fluid contained in the inner layer, and theremay be periodic attachments to the inner layer of the coils. Preferably,the coils are suspended and the energy transfer occurs at the point ofcompression, or impact, and where the STF whose viscosity increases withshear rate, including discontinuous STF's where at high shear ratestransform into a material with solid-like properties, wherein the energyis transferred into the non-Newtonian fluid.

In a preferred embodiment, the headwear in the headband and the skullcap are stretchable between a relaxed relationship and an expandedrelationship upon placement on a head of a wearer, and the stretchableouter fabric layer delivers a stretch and relax compressive andexpansive force to maintain placement and removal from the head of thewearer. Preferably, both the headband and the skull cap may include athin layer of foam, a bladder containing the non-Newtonian fluid and/orhoneycomb that may be attached to the outer wicking layer comprising atop wicking and padding layer with a possible thin layer of foam, and/orhoneycomb. At least a portion of the outer layer sidewall of theheadband may contain the foam, bladder with non-Newtonian fluid and/orhoneycomb, and at least a portion of the outer layer sidewall extendingup to the crown of the skull cap contains the foam. The outer layer maycontain a thin layer of foam. Preferably, the crown of the skull cap isrelaxed like soft material when the headwear is not worn, and isconvex-shaped when the skull cap is placed on the wearer's head.Preferably, at least a portion of the headwear uses material such as abreathable, wicking and non-stick or slippery material.

In a preferred embodiment, the outer layer, the inner layer, and thefoam, a bladder containing the non-Newtonian fluid, and/or honeycombthat may be attached to the outer layer are stitched or sewn at theouter edges of the sidewalls, and wherein at least a portion of thecrown may be stitched, glued, heat sealed, or sewn to at least a portionof the sidewall. Preferably, the inner and outer layers are attached viastitched, glued, heat sealed, sewn, or using some other method ofattachment.

Additional aspects of the invention relate to sample methods forproviding body protection using an outer layer member, and inner layermember, a non-Newtonian fluid, and may contain a matrix of honeycomb.Such methods may include athletic vests, other protective wear, etc., asreceiving members.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a person wearing a headband inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a person wearing a skullcap, inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing three layers of the headband ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a cross-section of the headband taken along line 4-4 in FIG.1;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a headband with pockets in accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the headband of FIG. 1 with two of thebladders exploded out of the pocket;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another headband with pockets inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a skullcap with pockets in accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a bladder with a set of coils therein,in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not tobe construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described toprovide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certaininstances, well-known or conventional details are not described in orderto avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an embodimentin the present disclosure can be, but not necessarily are references tothe same embodiment; and, such references mean at least one of theembodiments.

Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment”means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic describedin connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodimentof the-disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” invarious places in the specification are not necessarily all referring tothe same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodimentsmutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features aredescribed which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others.Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirementsfor some embodiments but not other embodiments.

The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinarymeanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in thespecific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used todescribe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in thespecification, to provide additional guidance to the practitionerregarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certainterms may be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotationmarks: The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaningof a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the samecontext, whether or not it is highlighted.

It may be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than oneway. Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for anyone or more of the terms discussed herein. No special significance is tobe placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein.Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or moresynonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examplesanywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussedherein is illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit thescope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term.Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given inthis specification.

Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples ofinstruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according tothe embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note thattitles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of areader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unlessotherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein havethe same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in theart to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, thepresent document, including definitions, may control.

It may be appreciated that terms such as “front,” “back,” “top,”“bottom,” “side,” “short,” “long,” “up,” “down,” “aft,” “forward,”“inboard,” “outboard” and “below” used herein are merely for ease ofdescription and refer to the orientation of the components as shown inthe figures. It should be understood that any orientation of thecomponents described herein is within the scope of the presentinvention.

The invention generally relates to safety headwear, such as foractivities and sports including, but not limited to soccer, rugby, andbasketball, and further includes, other sports requiring some form ofhead protection, but not with a hard or solid helmet shell comprised ofmaterials science such as Polycarbonate, ABS, Carbon Fiber, Fiberglass,and more. The invention also generally relates to protective gear, suchas padding, body armor, etc. This invention relates generally to adisposable headwear protection system designed to protect the human headfrom injury resulting from sports impacts where helmets are nottypically worn. Soccer and basketball are two non-contact sports that dosuffer from concussions, in which acceleration, angular, rotational,linear with possible extension or flexion motion resulting from animpact force that calls for or requires protection for the head.

The method of the present invention embodies an inherent systemcontained in a breathable wicking material with an inner layer, orclosed/sealed tube made of polyurethanes, polyolefins or any polymericmaterial to contain and maintain the shear thickening fluid lockedwithin the inner layer in a permanently enclosed environment. Thepresent invention may also include and contained within theclosed/sealed tube with the non-Newtonian fluid the matrix of honeycombthat dissipates and energy attenuates impact force from an impact orcontact of the headband or skull cap using the non-Newtonian fluid as anenergy attenuation mechanism, as well as the non-Newtonian combined withthe matrix of honeycomb to dissipate and energy attenuate impact force.The present invention also includes the coil system matrix and/orhoneycomb that is contained/enclosed within the interior closed/sealedtube made of polyurethanes, polyolefins or any polymeric material tocontain and maintain the shear thickening fluid along with the matrix ofhoneycomb, which is suspended in the STF of the headwear or skull capresulting in energy attenuation of the impact force of the protectiveheadwear/headband or skull cap. The present invention also includes inthe headband or skull cap system breathable double fabric knit as theexterior/outer layer that also may include a very thin layer of foam(e.g., a high density open cell urethane foam, a microcellular ethylenevinyl acetate (EVA) polyethylene foam, etc.), and/or honeycomb, of theheadband or skull cap. The matrix of honeycomb specific energydissipating and energy attenuating characteristics addresses impactpoints on the head, whereby the non-Newtonian fluid thickeningproperties at impact, or point of compression allows the soft materialsand fluids to behave like a hard helmet shell, and the transfer ofimpact force at the point of compression into the non-Newtonian fluids,and the combination of the non-Newtonian fluids with the matrix ofhoneycomb through rarefaction is enabled by the headband or skull cap(s)to act as properties as a hard exterior/outer shell. The STF fluid mayalso return to its fluid or liquid state post the impact, and may act orbehave the same with each repeated impact. The present invention is adisposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system andapparatus that is designed to protect the head from injury resultingfrom sports and other impacts using an outer layer of wicking materialthat may contain a very thin layer of foam, a bladder containing thenon-Newtonian fluid, and/or honeycomb, with an inner layer using apolyurethanes, polyolefins or any polymeric material to contain andmaintain the shear thickening fluid, or STF, a matrix of honeycombcontained within/suspended in the STF to dissipate and energy attenuatethe impact force resulting from contact at the point of compression in adisposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system.

The method embodies a disposable advanced sports safety headweartechnology system that is activated by the impact force on the a bladdercontaining the non-Newtonian fluid, and/or the matrix of honeycombsuspended in the non-Newtonian or STF fluid, or the non-Newtonian fluidis suspended within each honeycomb cell/cavity contained within theinner layer of the headband or skull cap system resulting in dissipationand energy attenuation of the impact force at the point of impact, orcompression.

The present invention looks at a head protective device for protectionfrom impact-based injuries, especially relating to sports activities, isprovided by a fabric or wicking outer material/element/member, orgarment, with an inner enclosed plastic or flexible polymer system witha cavity to house or contain non-Newtonian fluid(s), which may includeand house or contain the matrix of honeycomb contained therein. Thematrix of honeycomb is suspended in the non-Newtonian fluid or shearthickening fluid, which is strategically provided in the entire headbandor skull cap member(s) within the inner layer of the headband outermaterial/element/member or garment worn for protecting the human headfrom injuries related to impact during sports or athletic activities.

The matrix of honeycomb may be continuously linked as a contiguousone-piece, which are designed to transfer and dissipate the impactenergy waveforms from small to significant impacts, utilizingsignificantly lighter and stronger materials.

The present inventions “matrix of honeycomb” and its ability todissipate and energy attenuate impact force whether it is resulting fromlinear acceleration, angular acceleration, or rotational accelerationcoupled with the characteristics of non-Newtonian or shear thickeningfluid to harden at the moment and point of impact may apply to, but notbe limited to: headbands/headwear including skull caps worn by humanwearers, contact with other humans not wearing headwear, and impact withother parts of the human body, such as, but not limited to: legs,shoulders, elbows, hands, wrists, knees, feet, ankles, shoes worn by thehuman, hips, and other body parts and the like, plus the impact forcemay be sensed from contact whether it is from a contact surface, suchas, but not limited to: the ground consisting of grass, dirt, man-madeturf, such as astro turf, or synthetic turf used instead of grass, snow,ice, asphalt, clay, concrete, other surfaces including the ball, and thelike.

The disposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system/memberand apparatus that is designed to protect the head from injury resultingfrom sports and other impacts may exhibit a layered configuration thatincludes a soft comfortable exterior layer of wicking material that maycontain a very thin layer of foam, and/or honeycomb, a strong, pliableand inner layer with durable enclosed system (formed out of somepolymer, such as flexible plastic, including, but not limited topolyurethanes, polyolefins or any polymeric material), where the presentinvention may also/may also include and contain within the closed/sealedtube the non-Newtonian fluid along with the matrix of honeycomb. Inanother embodiment, coils, similar to those taught in U.S. Pat. No.9,314,060 can be used in place of or in conjunction with the matrix ofhoneycomb.

The present invention preferably has an outer layer attached to theinner layer at the top and bottom of the headband, which may beconstructed using stitching or sewing, sealants or adhesives, heatsealing, cements, glues, fusing techniques, and other materials ortechniques not listed, or a combination thereof, and potentiallythroughout the headband with the non-Newtonian or STF fluid systemcontained and sealed therein and contained within the inner layer orbladder system. The matrix of honeycomb is preferably sealed in theinner layer, and suspended in the non-Newtonian fluid, or thenon-Newtonian fluid is suspended within each of the honeycombcells/cavities and sealed. The matrix of honeycomb or bladder system maybe attached at certain points of the top and bottom of the headbandusing stitching or sewing, sealants or adhesives, heat sealing, cements,glues, fusing techniques, and other materials or techniques not listed.Suitable flexible yet resilient plastics used for the inner sealed layersystem using polyurethanes, polyolefins or any polymeric materialpolyethylene, and review of use of polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinylchloride, and polytetrafluoroethylene that is flexible, but durable forholding shape under impact conditions, excessive heat conditions, notlosing its strength or shape with impact force. The non-Newtonian Fluidor STF can be comprised of corn starch and non-toxic anti-freeze, or asimple dilitant, such as cornstarch in water, or non-Newtonian fluidsthat exhibit viscoelatic properties, so long as the capacity ofmaterials exhibit preferably both viscous and elastic characteristicswhen undergoing deformation under the resultant of pound force ofcompressive pressure from impact force to the human head. The exterioror outer layer that may contain a very thin layer of foam, and/orhoneycomb, an inner durable plastic layer, non-Newtonian fluid, matrixof honeycomb may be joined to one another in various different methods,such as mechanical connectors, stitching or sewing, adhesives, cements,glues, fusing techniques, and other materials or techniques not listed.

The following description includes various examples of the invention,which are referenced and reference is made to the associated drawings,which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustrationexample systems. Also, the following description includes variousexamples of the invention, which are referenced and reference is made tothe associated drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which areshown by way of illustration example environments and usage theinvention may be employed. It is to be stated that other configurations,usages, aspects of use, parts, portions, example systems may be used andstructural and functional modifications or alterations may be madewithout taking leave from the scope of the present invention. Terms,such as “around,” “through,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “above,” “below,”“underneath,” “over,” “clear,” “transparent,” “inner,” “outer,”“matrix,” “fluids,” “soft,” “wicking,” “single,” “double,” “viscosity,”“dissipate,” “energy attenuate,” “force,” “impact,” “linear,”“rotational,” “angular,” “acceleration,” “honeycomb,” “cells,” etc. maybe used to describe the invention, and the various examples, and exampleaspects, facets, features, elements of the invention, these terms areused herein as a matter of descriptors and for practicality andexpediency based upon the example orientations as shown in theillustrations. Nothing in this specification should be construed asrequiring a specific three-dimensional orientation of structures inorder to fall within the scope of this invention.

General Description of the disposable advanced sports safety headweartechnology system/member and apparatus receiving devices including: Adisposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system/member andapparatus designed to protect the human head from injury resulting fromsports impacts with a non-Newtonian fluid or STF also with a bladdersystem and/or with a matrix of honeycomb in which linear acceleration,angular, and/or rotational acceleration, deceleration or velocityresulting from an impact force requires deployment of an apparatusprotection device at the point of impact or compression. The methodembodies a non-Newtonian fluid containing the matrix of honeycomb thatis deployed or engaged with resulting impact force on the headwearincluding, but not limited to a headband, or skull cap using thedilitant capabilities of a non-Newtonian fluid coupled with the matrixof honeycomb resulting in dissipation and energy attenuation via thenon-Newtonian fluid with or without the matrix of honeycomb of theimpact force incurred at the point of compression using the protectivecapability of matrix of honeycomb contained in the non-Newtonian fluid.The non-Newtonian fluid acts as fluid dilitant that is lightweight, buthas the properties to immediately convert to a solid substance at thepoint of impact resulting from the impact force. The dilitant fluidimmediately relaxes once the pressure is released with the transfer ofthe impact energy force into the matrix of honeycomb. The properties ofthe non-Newtonian fluid of the present invention also address outsideair temperature fluctuations and may accommodate temperature rangesbelow freezing and above 100°.

Some aspects of the present invention relate generally to headwearsystems, to non-Newtonian properties, to protective equipment for safetyin sports, and other uses. Preferably, the advanced sports safetytechnology headwear system fits on the wearer's head. The non-Newtonianfluid may occupy one or more placements within the headband portion ofthe disposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system. Thematrix of honeycomb may occupy one or more placements within theheadband portion of the disposable advanced sports safety headweartechnology system. The suspended matrix of honeycomb may occupy one ormore placements within the headband or skull cap portion of the headwearsystem. The inner layer, or closed/sealed tube made of polyurethanes,polyolefins or any polymeric material may occupy one or more placementswithin the outer breathable and stretchable wicking material layer,which may contain a thin layer of foam, of the headband or skull capsystem.

The disposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system may beformed from a variety of comfortable wicking materials and may be formedwith a variety of characteristics in the prior art. The inner layer, orclosed/sealed tube made of polyurethanes, polyolefins or any polymericmaterial plastic system may be formed from a variety of materials andmay be formed with a variety of characteristics. The inherentnon-Newtonian fluid, dilitant or shear thickening fluid may be formedfrom a variety of materials and may be formed with a variety ofcharacteristics.

The matrix of honeycomb may be formed from a variety of materials andmay be formed with a variety of characteristics, as well as may beformed from materials used in the tested coil technology discussedherein.

Aspects of the invention relate to safety systems in sports and relatesto a disposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system or adisposable advanced sports safety headband or skull cap technologysystem means any device that a user places on or over some portion ofthe human body. The advanced sports safety headwear technology systemreceiving device, (i.e., a disposable advanced sports safety headweartechnology system designed to protect the users head area), which is adisposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system andapparatus including a headwear system with an outer layer and an innerlayer, the inner and outer layers including at least a headband or skullcap member, at least one member of the headwear member including adilitant, shear thickening fluid, or non-Newtonian fluid, and at leastone member of the headwear member including a matrix of honeycomb.

The inner layer or member portion of the advanced sports safety headweartechnology system contains the matrix of honeycomb, including one ormore honeycomb cells structured and distributed throughout the headwearportion of the advanced sports safety technology system and aresuspended or some form of minimal contact to maintain positioning in thenon-Newtonian fluid suspended, or the non-Newtonian fluid suspendedwithin each honeycomb cell/cavity in the inner layer of the headwear.

The matrix of honeycomb is preferably distributed throughout theheadband or skull cap member portion of the headwear system, e.g., atleast over 95%, or at least over 99%, or at least 100% of the headwearmember area (or anywhere between 1% and 95%). Additionally, the headwearmember includes a dilitant, shear thickening or non-Newtonian fluid.When the matrix of honeycomb along with non-Newtonian fluid are insertedin the inner layer or member or cavity between the outer layer ofwicking material in the headwear member, there are preferably noprotrusions and the matrix of honeycomb is preferably flat, lightweightand may extend vertically and laterally and/or upward or downward withinthe inner layer member.

The non-Newtonian fluid of an example embodiment of the invention mayoccupy a significant portion of the entire inner layer member system,e.g., at least 99%, or at least 100% of the headwear system member ofthe headwear system and region or area (or anywhere between 1% and 99%).The matrix of honeycomb when inserted in the inner layer member orcavity or void designed in the headwear system, specifically in the fullheadband or in the full skull cap respective member of the headwearsystem, preferably does not have any protrusions, and the matrix ofhoneycomb may extend laterally and vertically, may have depth, may haveheight, and may be in three dimensional form.

Also as noted, as an example of the embodiment of the invention, mayinclude a matrix of honeycomb and non-Newtonian fluid oriented in theinner closed/sealed tube made of polyurethanes, polyolefins or anypolymeric material that is contained inside of the outer or exteriorlayer member comprised of a breathable wicking material. While notvisible, the matrix of honeycomb will be noted due to the honeycombsextending vertically and/or horizontally, having depth, having heightand being in three dimensional form.

The inner closed/sealed tube system may be formed of a variety ofmaterials and/or include a variety of features or element to alter oradjust characteristics of the receiving device. For example, the pliableand durable inner closed/sealed tube may be formed out of some polymer,such as flexible plastic, including, but not limited to thermoplasticsincluding polyurethanes, polyolefins or any polymeric material, notexcluding polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride,and polytetrafluoroethylene.

The matrix of honeycomb may be formed of a variety of materials and/orinclude a variety of features or element to alter or adjustcharacteristics of the receiving device.

Additional aspects of the invention include methods of providing andmethods of using headwear systems. For example, to insert the matrix ofhoneycomb where the matrix of honeycomb is distributed/situatedthroughout the headwear member. The matrix of honeycomb member includingone or more apertures. The non-Newtonian fluid may be both containedwithin the inner closed/sealed tube or layer between the outerbreathable wicking material layer of material where each of the notedcomponent parts above will be inserted.

To insert the matrix of honeycomb into the headwear system, it may beplaced within the inner layer, followed by adding the non-Newtonianfluid then sealing the inner layer, and may be placed within the outerbreathable wicking outer layer or member.

The headwear system receiving device when worn independently, includingthe matrix of honeycomb the non-Newtonian fluid may not present the useror a wearer with an abnormal feeling of fit, comfort, or the like.

Specific examples of the invention and the structures according to theexamples of the invention are described in greater detail below. Thesespecific examples and structures are set forth simply to illustrate theinvention, and they should not be construed as limiting the invention.

The various figures in the application illustrate examples of adisposable advanced sports safety headwear technology system apparatusand product. The headwear system or article of headwear in the form of aheadband or in the form of a skull cap used for other various uses isused as a base shape or design in the examples of the invention.

The various figures in the application illustrate examples of anadvanced sports safety headwear technology system apparatus and product.The headwear system in the form of a headband or in the form of a skullcap used for other various uses is used as a base shape or design in theexamples of the invention.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for purposes ofillustrating the present invention and not for purposes of limiting thesame, FIGS. 1-9 show embodiments of headbands and skullcaps that includea non-Newtonian fluid therein in accordance with preferred embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 1 shows a wearer with a headband 12 thereon and FIG. 2 shows awearer with a skullcap 14 thereon. The headband and skullcap (as well asthe headband and skullcap shown in FIGS. 5, 8 and 9) are all articles ofheadwear and will therefore be referred to generally herein as anarticle of headwear 10. All description related to the headband hereinapplies to the skullcap as well.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, in a preferred embodiment, the article ofheadwear 10 includes a bladder member 16 that defines a bladder interior18, a fabric member 20 that surrounds the bladder member 16, and a foammember 22 that is positioned between the fabric member 20 and thebladder member 16. As shown in FIG. 4, a non-Newtonian fluid 24 isdisposed in the bladder interior. In a preferred embodiment, thenon-Newtonian fluid comprises corn starch and non-toxic antifreeze.However, any non-Newtonian fluid is within the scope of the presentinvention. Preferably, the fabric member 20 includes an outer layer 21and an inner layer 23 that is configured to be positioned adjacent awearer's head when the article of headwear 10 is worn.

The bladder member 16 is preferably made of a polymer so that it ismalleable and can move when worn and struck. The bladder member 16 canbe completely open on the inside thereof (i.e., a single cavity) andhave the non-Newtonian fluid 24 distributed throughout. In anotherembodiment, the bladder member 16 can include a plurality of cells orpockets therein. As shown in FIGS. 3-4, in a preferred embodiment, thebladder member 16 includes a plurality of honeycomb cells 26 and eachcell includes the non-Newtonian fluid 24 disposed therein. In apreferred embodiment, each cell 26 defines a cell axis A1 that extendsgenerally perpendicular to the outer surface of the wearer's skin. Inother words, the cell axes are oriented generally perpendicular to theinner surface 23 a of the inner layer 23 of the fabric member 20. Inanother embodiment, the cells can be oriented so that the cell axes arenot perpendicular to the wearer's skin. In another embodiment, there canbe multiple layers of cells. The fabric member 20 can be stitched asnecessary to enclose the bladder member(s) 16 and foam layer 22 therein.

The foam member 22 surrounds the bladder member 16 and providescushioning and comfort both when the article of headwear 10 is normallyworn and when the article of headwear 10 is struck (e.g., by a soccerball). The foam member can be omitted if desired or it can be made ofother soft materials that are not foam. The foam layer is a soft layer.In another embodiment, the foam member can be a single layer that ispositioned between the outer layer 21 of the fabric member 20 and thebladder member 16 or between the inner layer 23 of the fabric member 20and the bladder member 16.

As shown in FIG. 1, in a preferred embodiment, the article of headwear10 is a cylindrical headband 12. The bladder member 16 can be a completecylinder or, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the article of headwear caninclude a plurality of bladder member 16 that are disposed in the fabricmember 20. In the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6, separate pockets 30 areformed in the article of headwear 10. The pockets 30 can be created viastitching 32. In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, thepockets 30 can be created separately with separate fabric members 20forming a pocket 30 that includes one or more bladder members 16therein. It will be appreciated that the non-Newtonian fluid in eachbladder member can be the same or may have a different formula dependingon the portion of the wearer's head that is covered (i.e., it can relateto key impact points on the head) and the characteristics of thenon-Newtonian fluid needed. In another embodiment, some pockets mayinclude bladders with non-Newtonian fluid therein and other pockets caninclude padding therein. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 7, the article ofheadwear can include elastic members 40 for stretching the article ofheadwear over the wearer's head. The article of headwear can alsoinclude a chin strap 42, as shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 9 shows a bladder member 17 with a coil system or plurality ofcoils 32 disposed in the bladder interior 18 and immersed in thenon-Newtonian fluid 24. The coils 32 have the characteristics describedin the '060 patent, discussed above.

There may be many modifications to the specifically describedstructures, systems, and methods of the invention may take place withoutdeparting from this invention. As an example, while the invention hasbeen specifically described with respect to specific examples includingpreferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the artmay appreciate that there may be numerous variations, combinations, andpermutations of the above described systems and methods. Furthermore,various specific structural features included in the examples merelyrepresent examples of structural feathers that may be included in someexamples of structure according to the invention. Furthermore, withrespect to the methods, many variations in the method steps may takeplace, the steps may be changed in order, various steps or features maybe added changes, or omitted, etc., without departing from theinvention. Thus, the reader should understand that the spirit and scopeof the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in theappended claims.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout thedescription and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and thelike are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to anexclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of“including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connected,”“coupled,” or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling,either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling ofconnection between the elements can be physical, logical, or acombination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,”and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall referto this application as a whole and not to any particular portions ofthis application. Where the context permits, words in the above DetailedDescription of the Preferred Embodiments using the singular or pluralnumber may also include the plural or singular number respectively. Theword “or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of thefollowing interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, allof the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise formdisclosed above. While specific embodiments of and examples for thedisclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, variousequivalent modifications are possible within the scope of thedisclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art may recognize. Further,any specific numbers noted herein are only examples: alternativeimplementations may employ differing values, measurements or ranges.

The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to othersystems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements andacts of the various embodiments described above can be combined toprovide further embodiments. Any measurements described or used hereinare merely exemplary and not a limitation on the present invention.Other measurements can be used. Further, any specific materials notedherein are only examples: alternative implementations may employdiffering materials.

Any patents and/or patent applications and other references are articlesnoted above or herein, including any that may be listed in accompanyingfiling papers, charts or figures are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety. Aspects of the disclosure can be modified, if necessary,to employ the systems, functions, and concepts of the various referencesdescribed above to provide yet further embodiments of the disclosure.

These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of theabove Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments. While the abovedescription describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, anddescribes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the aboveappears in text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details ofthe system may vary considerably in its implementation details, whilestill being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As notedabove, particular terminology used when describing certain features oraspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that theterminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specificcharacteristics, features or aspects of the disclosure with which thatterminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the followingclaims should not be construed to limit the disclosures to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification unless the above DetailedDescription of the Preferred Embodiments section explicitly defines suchterms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses notonly the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways ofpracticing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.

Accordingly, although exemplary embodiments of the invention have beenshown and described, it is to be understood that all the terms usedherein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes,modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having ordinaryskill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An article of headwear comprising: at least afirst bladder member that defines a bladder interior, wherein anon-Newtonian fluid is disposed in the bladder interior, a fabric memberthat surrounds the first bladder member, wherein the fabric memberincludes an outer layer and an inner layer, wherein the inner layer isconfigured to be positioned adjacent a wearer's head when the article ofheadwear is worn.
 2. The article of headwear of claim 1 wherein thebladder member includes a plurality of cells defined therein, whereineach cell includes the non-Newtonian fluid disposed therein.
 3. Thearticle of headwear of claim 2 wherein each cell has a honeycomb shape.4. The article of headwear of claim 3 wherein each cell defines a cellaxis, wherein the inner layer of the fabric layer defines an innersurface, and wherein the cell axes are oriented generally perpendicularto the inner surface.
 5. The article of headwear of claim 1 wherein asoft layer is positioned between the outer layer of the fabric memberand the bladder member.
 6. The article of headwear of claim 1 whereinthe bladder is made of a polymer.
 7. The article of headwear of claim 1wherein the article of headwear is a cylindrical headband.
 8. Thearticle of headwear of claim 1 wherein the article of headwear is askull cap.
 9. The article of headwear of claim 1 further comprising aplurality of bladder members that are enclosed in a plurality ofpockets.
 10. The article of headwear of claim 1 further comprising aplurality of coil members that are disposed in the bladder interior andwithin the non-Newtonian fluid.
 11. The article of headwear of claim 1wherein the non-Newtonian fluid comprises corn starch and non-toxicantifreeze.
 12. An article of headwear comprising: at least a firstbladder member that defines a bladder interior, wherein the bladder ismade of a polymer and includes a plurality of cells defined therein,wherein a non-Newtonian fluid is disposed in each of the cells, whereineach cell has a honeycomb shape, and wherein each cell defines a cellaxis, a fabric member that surrounds the first bladder member, whereinthe fabric member includes an outer layer and an inner layer, whereinthe inner layer is configured to be positioned adjacent a wearer's headwhen the article of headwear is worn, wherein the inner layer of thefabric layer defines an inner surface, and wherein the cell axes areoriented generally perpendicular to the inner surface, and a foam layerthat is positioned between the outer layer of the fabric member and thebladder member.
 13. The article of headwear of claim 12 furthercomprising a plurality of bladder members that are enclosed in aplurality of pockets defined in the fabric member.
 14. The article ofheadwear of claim 12 further comprising a plurality of coil members thatare disposed in the bladder interior and within the non-Newtonian fluid.15. The article of headwear of claim 12 wherein the non-Newtonian fluidcomprises corn starch and non-toxic antifreeze.